DE102018131444A1 - Automatic cutting machine and modular cable processing center - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a multi-feed cutting machine and a wire processing center (WPC), which is implemented with such a cutting machine.

Description

The invention relates to a cutting machine for a modular cable processing center (WPC) for the manufacture of cables which are to be laid, for example, in control cabinets, and a WPC designed with such a cutting machine.

With such a WPC cables, cables can be supplied, cut to length, provided with a marker and crimped with a contact element, such as a ferrule. The prefabricated cables are then conventionally bundled and accommodated in a memory arrangement. Such a center is for example in the US 8,442,664 B1 disclosed. The actual cable assembly is done via a unit that is designed as a special machine and allows the above steps. Such a unit has a very complex structure and can be adapted to different manufacturing tasks only with great effort. Furthermore, such a special machine is relatively expensive and requires a large amount of space within the production line.

A more flexible solution is to provide modular units instead of a special machine, at which the individual processing steps (cutting to length, marking, stripping, crimping, bundling) are then performed by a worker. The crimping is done with a crimping machine, such as from the patent DE 44 40 835 C1 the Applicant known and used for example to crimp ferrules with a stripped cable end. This ferrules are rolled up in the known solution as a webbing on a drum magazine and promoted by this via a transport unit to a crimping head. Alternatively, the wire end ferrules or contact elements can also be taken in isolated form in a memory and then conveyed to the crimping head in a position-defined manner via a suitable feed device. Such a feeder is for example in the DE 198 31 588 A1 described.

The ferrules to be crimped ferrule is placed in the known solutions by means of a holding unit on the stripped cable end and then pressed over the crimping head. The stripping of the cable end can be done either externally or via an integrated in the crimping stripping.

The structure of a transport unit for conveying the arranged on a belt end sleeves or other electrical components is described for example in the publication G 93 08 266.5 of the applicant. A similar transport unit is also in the DE 197 14 964 C1 disclosed.

In mass production, it is necessary to press different cable cross sections and electrical components / contact elements together and then to install in a subsequent assembly step, for example, when mounting a cabinet. In principle, two possibilities remain: In one variant, the crimping machine is converted for pressing different cable cross sections and / or contact elements (ferrules) or several crimping machines are provided for processing the different cable cross sections / contact elements. The former solution requires high set-up times and a considerable amount of personnel. This disadvantage is overcome in the latter solution with a variety of crimping machines - but the investment costs are significant.

In the publication DE 10 2004 057 818 B3 is a machine (designed as a stripper, crimper) disclosed, with the different cable cross-sections and wire end sleeves are processed. In this case, a drum magazine and an associated crimping device are provided for each wire end sleeve type, to which a common drive is assigned, which can be selectively brought into operative engagement with one of the crimping devices. Such a solution requires a high device complexity, since a plurality of crimping devices must be provided and controlled.

In the case of the applicant DE 10 2015 119 217 A1 a crimping machine is shown with which the above-mentioned disadvantages are eliminated. This crimping machine has a storage arrangement with a plurality of drum magazines, which are associated with a common transport unit and a common crimping head, so that the device complexity is significantly reduced compared to the above-described solution.

In the post-published DE 10 2017 118 968 the Applicant is a crimping machine disclosed in which a crimped contact element without the interposition of a feeder or the like is guided directly into the range of action of a stripping or crimping head. In this known solution, the contact elements are preferably stored in drum magazines, so that according to the crimping machine is designed with a separating device.

The also attributable to the applicant DE 10 2015 102 060 A1 shows a crimping machine, in which different wire end ferrules are kept in a storage arrangement with several drum magazines. Each of these drum magazines is assigned a transport unit, via which the respectively selected wire end ferrule is transported to a transfer position. These severed wire end ferrule is then guided by means of a shuttle to a common crimping head.

This crimping machine is characterized by high productivity. However, a certain disadvantage is seen in the fact that the required shuttle is constructed comparatively complex and claimed corresponding space and no stripping is possible.

The term "UNICUT ^®", a generic Ablenkmaschine is offered by the applicant, the mm for cutting single and stranded cables / lines with a cross-section of 0.08 to 10 is suitable. ² In this known solution, the cable to be shortened is transported via a transport device with two frictionally acting drive rollers corresponding to the predetermined nominal length and then separated by means of a cutting device. The supply of the cable from a cable storage, such as a cable reel, done by the worker. This places the cut to length cables / lines in a cache, from which in turn a worker removes the cut cables and a crimping machine, in which the end portions of the cables are stripped and crimped with contact elements, such as wire end ferrules.

Due to the high manual work share, the demands on workers during assembly and especially during the subsequent laying of the cables in the control cabinet are relatively high, and errors can not be ruled out.

In contrast, the invention has for its object to provide a cutting machine and a cable processing center (WPC), which ensures flexible cable assembly with high production reliability.

This object is achieved by a cutting machine with the features of claim 1 and by a WPC with the features of claim 9.

Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

The automatic cutting machine according to the invention - also called a cutting machine - has a feed for a cable and a transport device for advancing the cable according to a predetermined cable length and a cutting device for cutting the cable. According to the invention, the feed is designed as a multiple feed for a plurality of cable cross sections or cable types, wherein a control device is used to align a cable to be processed with respect to the feed or the transport device of the automatic cutting machine.

In one embodiment, this multiple feed has a carriage, which is preferably movable transversely to the feed direction of the cable during cutting.

It is preferred if the feed direction is in the horizontal direction. Of course, a vertical mobility is conceivable.

In a variant of the invention, the carriage is guided on a carriage guide whose stroke is designed so that the respective cable can be aligned with respect to the transport device.

The deflection machine can be made particularly compact, if the different cables are each accommodated on cable stores, in particular cable rollers and are guided over a cable guide to the carriage.

Instead of the carriage, of course, another suitable handling device, such as a robot / robot arm can be used, which is designed such that it engages the respective cable provided on the cable storage or other cable supply arrangement and then the transport device of the automatic deflection fed.

The function of the Ablenkautomaten can be further improved if the transport device is designed with two drive rollers, which are movable apart for threading the respective cable.

The feed is particularly simple when a feed device, in particular feed rollers are provided on the carriage for each cable cross-section, through which the respective cable is aligned with respect to the transport device or cutter and moved into the effective range.

The cable processing center according to the invention has a cutting machine with the features described above.

The cable processing center can be used particularly flexibly if the known processing modules, in particular the automatic deflection machine and the crimping machine, are arranged on a mobile platform, preferably a workshop trolley, on which the cable stores are also held. With such a tool trolley, it is very easy to spend the entire cable processing center to the respective installation location, for example in front of the cabinet to be equipped.

The following describes a modular cable processing center (WPC) that has a central control unit for controlling several Machining modules is executed. Control is dependent on production data, which can be specified by a CAE system or, alternatively, manually entered. In this case, at least two of the processing modules from the cutting machine, marking system, Abisoliereinheit, contact element supply, crimping, Kabelzuführeinheit and Kabelabführ- / bundle unit are used. Essential modules, in particular the cutting machine, the marking system and the crimping machine are designed as individual processing units, which are also operable independently.

Due to this modular design, the WPC can be adapted very flexibly to different production tasks, whereby, for example, it is possible to start with a basic unit, such as a crimping machine, which is then gradually supplemented with the other processing modules. This modular structure thus makes it possible for smaller companies to handle complex production tasks with minimal investment.

The control unit and the processing modules can be designed such that cables / lines with different diameters, lengths and contact elements can be assembled sequentially (as a sequence).

In a particularly preferred embodiment, a handling system is used to transport the cables between or to the processing modules.

As described above, the cutting machine is associated with a feed unit, via which a cable with a certain line cross-section is automatically fed to cut this in the cutting machine. The cut-to-length cable can then be tapped by means of a handling device, for example by means of a robot arm or by means of a linear unit, on the automatic stripper or on a storage trough and brought into a positioning unit. Line markers can then be applied to this positioning unit, which are then removed with the handling device or another handling device from the marking system (printer) and applied to the cable held in the positioning unit. The same handling device or another handling device can be used to feed the marked cables to the crimping machine and then to feed the elements which have been crimped with contact elements, for example wire-end ferrules, to a further assembly step or to deposit them in a wire-holder system.

In a variant of the invention, the control unit has an IPC, preferably with a touch display.

According to the invention it is preferred if the independent processing modules are designed with interfaces for connection to the control unit or with each other.

The cables assembled by means of the WPC can be relatively positioned on a preferably rake-type cable holder so that a predetermined sequence of prefabricated cables is held thereon. Alternatively, the prefabricated cables can also be bundled.

The handling system can be a robot, a rotary table or another unit for transporting the cables to be assembled to the individual processing modules.

• 1 ein Blockschaubild eines modularen Kabelverarbeitungscenters;
• 2 ein Blockschaubild eines komplexeren Kabelverarbeitungscenters;
• 3 ein Blockschaubild zur Erläuterung des Fertigungsablaufes bei einem erfindungsgemäßen Kabelverarbeitungscenter;
• 4 eine Prinzipdarstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Ablängmaschine;
• 5 ein konkretes Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Kabelverarbeitungscenters (WPC) mit einem erfindungsgemäßen Ablenkautomaten;
• 6 eine Detaildarstellung des Ablenkautomaten gemäß 5 und
• 7 und 8 ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines WPC mit weiter verbessertem Automatisierungsgrad.

Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. Show it:

• 1 a block diagram of a modular cable processing center;
• 2 a block diagram of a more complex cable processing center;
• 3 a block diagram for explaining the manufacturing process at a cable processing center according to the invention;
• 4 a schematic diagram of a cutting machine according to the invention;
• 5 a concrete embodiment of a cable processing center (WPC) according to the invention with a deflection automatic according to the invention;
• 6 a detailed view of the deflection according to 5 and
• 7 and 8th an embodiment of a WPC with further improved degree of automation.

The basis for the cable assembly using the modular cable processing center (WPC) described below are existing CAE data sent to the WPC 1 be transmitted. This CAE data contains information about the cables to be assembled, such as cable diameter, cable length, type of mark to be applied, wire end sleeve type, etc. Such a CAE system is known, for example, under the name ePlan®. About the CAE system are then according to 1 via a suitable data transmission, for example a network, or in the case of simpler solutions also a USB stick, the wiring data to the WPC 1 transfer. This has a central control unit, for example, by an IPC 2 formed with suitable software for controlling machining modules. In 1 is another software tool Called the WPC tool, through which the communication of the company side. Hardware with the WPC 1 he follows. This, especially the IPC 2 has all the appropriate interfaces, such as a USB interface, a network interface, an input interface, and preferably a touch screen, via which all required data can be entered.

The IPC 2 generated manufacturing data are then in turn transmitted to the individual processing modules, so that they work off this information for cable assembly depending on the given CAE data. In the illustrated embodiment, the WPC has 1 a cutting machine 4 , a marking system 6 and a crimping machine 8th , the type described at the outset, with which the cable ends can be stripped and are crimped with ferrules or other contact elements.

The control / regulation of the individual processing modules takes place centrally via the IPC 2 , wherein the individual processing modules also allow each other a data transfer via suitable interfaces.

The cutting machine 4 is intended to cut off individual conductors / cables (for example, single, multi-strand, multi-stranded and ultrafine) with different outside diameters. About the marking system 6 there is a marking of the respective cable. In the illustrated embodiment, the marking system 6 a printer to label the cables or applied marks. It will be over the IPC 2 the label position and the number of markers per cable as well as the label text and the label color are specified.

Of course, the individual cables can also have different colors - the WPC according to the invention 1 makes it possible to assemble all these variants in any sequence and thereby manufacture cables with a length that complies with the specifications.

The WPC tool is, so to speak, a work preparation software that is made available on a customer-side PC and, for example, enables an import function from ePlan ^® . This PC is then in turn for data transmission with the IPC 2 connected

The whole WPC 1 is preferably on a in 1 Not shown workshop trolley arranged, which can then be spent in the immediate vicinity of the cabinet or to any other suitable position.

As explained in more detail below, this workshop trolley enables a compact placement of the above-mentioned processing modules. It can also be provided a means for collecting the cut lines. The modules are arranged on the workshop trolley so that the sequence of process steps takes place according to the best ergonomic principles. The workshop cart contains an IPC holder, which is preferably pivotable. Furthermore, all power strips for power, USB, HDMI, network, etc. are provided. Furthermore, the tool trolley can also be provided with a drawer / tray for hand tools and additional shelves for documents. In principle, a stocking of cable material can be provided on the workshop car. The storage of other wire end ferrules rollers is feasible on the workshop car.

In one embodiment, the prefabricated cables are positioned on a wire holding / sorting system, which is designed, for example, as a rake. The cable sequence provided for a control cabinet with suitable inscriptions can then be arranged on this system.

2 shows a variant of the above-described embodiment, in which substantially more processing modules are provided. The central control is again via an IPC 2 , As processing modules are provided a cable feed 10 , the cutting machine 4 , the marking system 6 , the crimping machine 8th , additionally a stripping machine (stripper) 12 , a bundle unit 14 for bundling the prefabricated cables and a central handling system 16 , via which the cables are transported between the individual processing modules.

All of these components are preferably arranged together on a workshop trolley or other mobile platform.

The processing modules are connected for data exchange with each other and with the IPC via suitable interfaces and a suitable network, so that virtually any Kabelkonfektionieraufgabe can be solved very flexible.

In 3 is a typical production process by means of a WPC according to the invention 1 shown. Accordingly, the cables to be processed via a cable feed 10 fed - this feed can in turn via the handling system 16 respectively. In the cutting machine 4 the cables are cut to the predetermined cable length, then in the marking system 6 marked and then in the crimping machine 8th stripped and crimped with wire end ferrules. The transport of cables between the individual processing modules are handled by the handling system 16 ,

The prefabricated cables are then either bundled or positioned on the above-described holder, or laid directly over a handling system or a worker in the cabinet. In this case, the worker can be supplied, for example via a VR system with suitable information that specify the installation position of the respective individual cable in the cabinet, so that the worker can carry out the cable laying virtually error-free in the predetermined sequence with minimal expenditure of time. In a variant of the invention, this laying can also take place via a further robot or the like.

4 shows an individual representation of the cutting machine according to the invention (cutting machine) 4 whose basic structure is known in principle. Such a cutting machine 4 has a feeder 18 over which the cable to be processed 56 a transport device 20 is supplied. About this is the cable 56 then transported according to the predetermined length and in the effective range of a cutting or cutting unit 22 brought through which the cable is then cut to length. The cut-to-length cable will then pass over a chute 82 fed to the next process step. The cable length and the cable cross-section to be processed are set centrally via the control unit (IPC).

A special feature of the described cutting machine 4 is that the supply with a movable adjustment slide 78 is executed, on which a plurality of cable cross-sections or different types of cables held and guided.

In one embodiment, the adjustment carriage carries 78 also a variety of feeding devices 30 , wherein each one of these feeding devices 30 associated with a cable cross section / cable type. The adjustment slide 78 is arranged movably on a linear guide, not shown, wherein the movement is controlled by the central control unit. By a corresponding control of the adjustment slide 78 , which can be adjusted for example by means of a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder, the type of cable to be processed with respect to the supply 18 be aligned. In principle, it is also possible that the cable to be processed directly to the cutting unit 22 or the transport device 20 is fed, so that may affect the feeder 18 can be waived.

In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment slide 78 in the horizontal direction (ie, parallel to the footprint of the cutting machine 4 ) movable. In principle, a method in the vertical direction or in another direction is possible. Also a rotatable adjustment slide 78 is conceivable.

The cutting machine according to the invention 4 enables a very flexible cutting of different cable types, whereby a conversion is not or rarely required.

At the in 4 illustrated embodiment, the feeding device 30 each with two feed rollers 31a . 31b executed, of which at least one is driven and which are frictionally brought for transport in contact with the respective cable.

The cutting machine according to the invention 4 allows automatic adjustment of the multiple feed to feed different cables / wires to the cutter.

In this case, the feed device associated with the cable to be processed 30 controlled via the central control unit, so that the relevant cable of the feeder 18 or the transport device 20 is supplied. There is then a preferably automatic threading of the cable. The cutting machine 4 then first performs a zero cut and then followed by the execution of the order by appropriate control of the transport device 20 depending on the cable length.

After finishing the job will be the appropriate cable 56 by controlling the transport device 18 and / or the feeder 30 unthreaded, so that in the episode a different cross-section can be edited.

5 shows a concrete embodiment of a cable processing center (WPC 1 ), which is formed according to the above-described concept. This is an expansion stage with a cutting machine 4 a crimping machine 8th that with an integrated stripping machine 12 is running, with an IPC 2 as well as with a marking system 6 used.

The units are mounted on a mobile platform, which in the illustrated embodiment as a workshop car 32 is executed. This has four definable roles 34 that allow the tool trolley 32 to be positioned in the area of a control cabinet or the like, so that the laying of the cable suburb is simplified. The workshop car 32 has a frame on which an approximately horizontally arranged worktop 36 is attached, on the example of the crimping machine 8th as well as the automatic cutting machine 4 attached or positioned. On a rear extended support frame 38 of the workshop car 32 are supply connections, for example a pneumatic connection strip 40 as well as a power bar 42 arranged for power and equipment supply of said processing modules.

How 5 removable, is the IPC 2 by means of an IPC holder 44 adjustable on the support frame 38 held, so the worker the IPC 2 or whose screen can adjust to a suitable relative to the job relative position in which he always has the screen in the eye.

On the approximately vertical support frame 38 of the workshop car 32 is also a console 46 fixed on the marking system 6 For example, with a label feeder and a printer 52 , stored. The aforementioned processing modules 2 . 4 . 6 . 8th (12) are on the power bar 42 or the pneumatic connection strip 40 connected. As explained above, the IPC 2 Furthermore, connected via a network connection to a corporate network. Of course, the IPC 2 also be designed as a stand-alone solution.

In the area below the worktop 36 are at the workshop car 32 cable reels 48a . 48b . 48c . 48d and 48e arranged, which are equipped with different cable cross-sections having cables. Usually, cable cross-sections of 0.34 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.5 mm or 4.0 mm are processed so that the cable reels 48 for example, can be provided with five of these cross sections. In principle, it is also possible to carry out two or more cable reels with a predominantly required cable cross section, so that the WPC 1 Relatively long time without cable reel change can be operated.

The positioning of the cable rollers 48 on the frame of the workshop car 32 is preferably such that the worker can easily reach the individual cables or such that in an automatic production, the cable 48 can be guided via a simply constructed guide to the respective processing unit. This will be discussed in more detail below. In principle, it is also possible with a manual production, the cables 48 with their cable ends in the area of the cutting machine 4 To hold on a cable holder, so that the gripping is simplified for the worker.

In the field of crimping machines 8th is a storage tub 50 intended for cut-to-length or prefabricated cables. As noted above, the above-described components / processing modules are at the resource ports, such as the pneumatic port header 40 and / or the energy bar 42 connected and stuck on the workshop cart 32 positioned. The WPC 1 carrying workshop cars 32 with the above components is then spent to the cabinet and to the local equipment / power supply and possibly the IPC 2 connected to the company network via a network connection.

For example, the wiring data required to perform the job may be prepared on an external PC and then sent to the IPC via the network port 2 be transmitted. For simpler solutions, the wiring data can be sent to the IPC via a suitable data carrier, for example a USB stick or the like 2 be handed over. Alternatively, of course, a direct input at the IPC 2 possible to generate the wiring data.

If necessary, the selection of the desired job (work order) then takes place via the worker and the program is started accordingly so that, depending on the work order, the above-described machining modules, in particular the automatic cutting machine 4 , the marking system 6 and the crimping machine 8th (strip machine 12 ) are programmed in a corresponding manner.

After cutting to length, the cable is taken by the worker in the storage tray 50 stored. The start of the program described above after the selection of the desired job is parallel to the printing information from the IPC 2 to the marking system 6 , more precisely its printer 52 , so that it prints the labels and appropriate cable markers are provided. These are then manually from the printer 52 tapped and at one or possibly both ends of the cable 42b attached.

Depending on the job were over the IPC 2 also the cross-section and crimp information on the crimping machine 8th (here with integrated stripping machine (stripper) 12 ) transmitted. By means of the machine control, the correct cross section of the cable to be processed on the automatic crimping machine is then determined in accordance with these specifications 8th / Stripping 12 set. At the IPC 2 is again readable that the crimping unit is programmed accordingly and ready for operation.

The worker then leads the first cable end into the crimping machine 8th / strip machines 12 so that the end of the cable is stripped and the ferrule selected according to the specification is crimped onto the cable.

As explained at the beginning, the crimping machine has 8th in the illustrated embodiment, a memory arrangement with five drum magazines 54 , each having a webbing with a specific ferrule diameter. Depending on the programming via the IPC 2 a predetermined wire end ferrule or other contact element is singulated via a singulator and then crimping a common crimping head of the crimping machine 8th fed. More details about this crimping machine 8th and the associated stripping machine 12 are in the aforementioned DE 10 2017 118 968 the applicant described.

After the crimping process, the line is removed by the worker from the crimping machine 8th taken and possibly the second cable end of the cable for another crimping the crimping machine 8th fed.

After one-sided or double-sided crimping, the prefabricated cables are deposited, for example, in a wire-holding system (not shown). According to the IPC 2 As described above, the worker then takes the individual cables from this wire-holding system and installs them in the control cabinet.

6 shows a detailed representation of the embodiment according to 5 used cutting machines 4 , As explained above, this is on the worktop 36 of the workshop car 32 attached and has on a front panel 58 actuators 60 . 62 for manual adjustment of the cutting machine 4 , In the illustrated embodiment, however, the adjustment does not take place via these adjusting elements 60 . 62 but via the internal machine control, over the IPC 2 is controlled.

Visible in 6 are two in vertical direction (view after 6 ) superimposed drive rollers 64a . 64b the transport device 20 , the frictionally engaged on the respective cables 56 attack to transport in the cable longitudinal direction, the transport length over the IPC 2 and the corresponding control of the drive rollers 64a . 64b is predetermined. In the direction of feed after the drive rollers 64a . 64b is the cutting unit 22 provided, the two in the horizontal direction (see arrows in 6 ) movable cutting jaws 68 . 70 with cutting knives 72 . 74 which are designed so that all cable cross-sections can be cut to length. The basic structure of the cutting unit 22 and the drive rollers 64a . 64b is known, so that further explanations are unnecessary.

When in 6 illustrated embodiment, the five cable cross sections via a guide, not shown, to a feed unit 76 the feeder 18 guided over the then to be processed each cable cross-section with respect to the transport device 20 with the drive rollers 64a . 64b and to the cutting unit 22 is aligned.

In the illustrated embodiment, the feed unit 76 a transverse to the cable transport axis adjustable adjusting slide 78 on a sled tour 80 in the direction of the arrow is adjustable to the respective line 56a . 56b . 56c . 56d or 56e with reference to the drive rollers 64a . 64b align. The adjustment can be done electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically or in any other way, of course, the positioning accuracy is designed so that a predetermined relative positioning to the drive rollers 64a . 64b and the cutting unit 22 is possible.

The cut-to-length cable 56b is then on the obliquely employed default slide 82 discharged and automatically or by the worker in the storage tray 36 stored.

The relative positioning of the cable 56b takes place by suitable control of the feed unit 76 depending on the selection of the desired job after starting the program. As explained above, then according to the specification of the adjustment slide 78 move in the transverse direction until the cable to be processed, such as the cable 56b with reference to the effective range of the drive rollers 64a . 64b is aligned. Here is the cable to be processed 56b approximately tangential to the drive rollers 64a . 64b aligned and thus becomes in the gusset between the two roles 64a . 64b moved in. In principle, it is sufficient if one of the two drive rollers 64a . 64b is driven and the other drive roller acts only as an anvil.

In the illustrated embodiment, the drive rollers 64a . 64b formed with a device that ensures that before the operative engagement, the two drive rollers 64a . 64b moved apart to facilitate the relative positioning of the cable cross-section to be cut. This disassembly / lifting of the drive rollers 64a . 64b takes place via a mechanism not shown in dependence on the control signals of the IPC 2 , After the procedure of the adjustment slide 78 in the desired relative position (orientation of the cable to be processed 56b then become the drive rollers 64a . 64b back down so that they frictionally engage with the cable 56b reach. As a result, the drive rollers 64a . 64b controlled, so that by their rotation the cable 56b is moved so that the cable end is slightly above the cutting blades 72 . 74 the cutting unit 22 survive. The next step is the cutting unit 22 triggered to cut the cable in the region of the cable end, so that a defined starting point for the cutting process is obtained. In the next step, the drive rollers 64a . 64b controlled according to the desired cable length.

The feeder can be further improved if the adjustment slide 78 can also be adjusted in the direction of the line, so that by a transverse adjustment and longitudinal adjustment of the respective cable exactly in the gusset between the drive rollers 64a . 64b can be introduced. Also, a height adjustment can be provided.

The activation of the drive roller (s) 64a . 64b is done so that a line section of the predetermined length on the cutting blade 72 . 74 is moved out. Once the predetermined length is reached, the drive of the drive rollers 64a . 64b stopped and the cutting unit 22 pressed to cut to length. As explained above, then slipped the cut cable (here cable 56b) along the slide 82 from the effective range of the cutting unit 52 so that the following cutting is not hindered.

7 shows a further expansion stage of the embodiment according to 6 that with a feeder unit 76 for automated feeding of the cable to be processed 56 is executed.

At the in 7 illustrated embodiment, the further transport of the cut cable is carried out automatically. As stated above, the cut to length cable 56b stored automatically or manually, for example in the storage tray 50 stored.

As in 7 implied, is on the countertop 36 or in a parallel arranged area a carriage 84 guided on the two grippers 86 . 88 are stored. The carriage 84 with the two grippers 86 . 88 can along a linear unit 90 , preferably approximately in the longitudinal direction of the cable 56 to be adjusted. The grippers 86 . 88 can be adjustable in the direction of the arrow, ie, transversely to the adjustment direction or else in the direction of the distance a, in order to allow an adaptation to different cable lengths and cross-sections in height. The gripping elements of the two grippers 86 . 88 and its actuators are designed so that they are the cables 56 reach and hold in the area of their end sections.

After cutting the cables 56 then over the grippers 86 . 88 gripped, with the carriage 84 over the linear unit 90 is moved to the required transfer position. By controlling the grippers 86 . 88 by means of the IPC 2 becomes the cut-to-length cable 56 for example the cable 56b (please refer 6 ) directly on the cutting machine 4 or in the storage tub 50 accepted. As a result, the carriage is 84 over the linear unit 90 towards a positioning unit 92 procedure and the cable 56b filed there. This positioning unit 92 has two nips 94 . 96 in which the cable ends are stored / clamped so that the cut-to-length cable is preferably held in an extended position. Different positioning units can be used for each cable length 92 be provided. In principle, however, it is also possible, the terminal points 94 . 96 adjustable, so that different lengths with a positioning 92 are processable.

After storing the cut-to-length cable 56 in the positioning device 92 becomes the carriage 84 again by means of the linear unit 90 moved back. The grippers 86 . 88 are then driven so that they or the parallel in the marking system 6 with the printer 52 tapped cable marker take over / take over. By further control of the linear unit 90 and the actuators of the carriage 84 These cable markers are then automatically applied to one or both ends of the cable, so that a corresponding marking of the cable 56b he follows.

After applying the Cable Makers / Cable Marker, the marked cable becomes 56b by means of the gripper 86 . 88 gripped and by appropriate control of the linear unit 90 and the gripper actuator to the crimping machine 8th emotional. The control of the grippers 86 . 88 then takes place in such a way that the line end to be stripped and to be crimped into a feed opening 98 of the crimping machine 8th is introduced, so that then the above-described stripping (stripping) and crimping takes place with the corresponding ferrule. During this crimping process, the line 56 preferably continue over the grippers 86 . 88 held. In the event that also the other end of the line 56 is to be crimped with a wire end ferrule, by appropriate control of the gripper 86 . 88 the cable 56 rotated by about 180 ° and the other end in the feed opening 98 for stripping and crimping.

After this crimping process, the cable is finally over the gripper 86 . 88 removed and fed to the next step. For example, the crimped cable can be stored in the above-mentioned wire-holder system.

In the illustrated embodiment is a handling device with two grippers 86 . 88 described whose actuators in the field of carriage 84 are arranged, by means of the linear unit 90 is adjustable. It can be used instead of this facial expression and another handling device, such as a robot or the like, the automated implementation of the above steps allows.

So shows 8th a variant in which instead of the handling device with a on the linear unit 90 adjustable running carriage 84 and the grippers stored thereon 86 . 88 a robot arm 100 is used, at the distal end portion of the two grippers 86 . 88 are held. The robot arm 100 is designed with a range of action that allows the above-described manufacturing steps, ie, the acquisition of the cut-to-length cable 56 from the cutting machine 4 and depositing on the positioning device 92 , as well as the adoption of the cable markers from the marking system 6 and their transmission to the cable ends and the supply of the marked cable 56 to the crimping machine 8th (stripping 12 ) and the transport of the crimped cable 56 to perform the next processing step.

In principle, it is also possible to have the individual substeps carried out by two or more handling devices. So it is conceivable, for example, that the cable markers on another handling device from the printer 38 (Marking system 6 ) and then to that in the positioning unit 92 dropped cables 56 be attached.

In principle, the cut to length cable can also have a suitable handling device, such as the gripper 86 . 88 to the marking system 6 spent and marked there directly.

The level of automation can be further developed in such a way that it is possible to assemble the cable essentially without manual intervention by the worker. However, this has on the basis of the representation of the assembly processes at the IPC 2 the opportunity to take corrective action. The assembled cables 56 can then be processed directly in the control cabinet, with the worker at the IPC 2 the desired mounting position of the respective cable 56 is displayed with the cable marking, so that incorrect installation is practically impossible. In principle, it is also possible to carry out this final assembly in the control cabinet automatically, for example, the provision of the respective cable is done by means of a handling device and on the worker the relevant line only needs to be mounted / connected.

A significant advantage of the modular system according to the invention is that existing machines with little effort in the WPC 1 can be integrated and that different stages of development can be realized gradually, so that the investment costs can be relatively flexibly adapted to the respective needs.

Disclosed is a multi-feed cutting machine and a wire processing center (WPC), which is implemented with such a cutting machine.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

WPC

2

IPC

4

Cutting Machine

6

marking system

8th

crimping machine

10

cable entry

12

Strip Machine

14

bundler

16

handling system

18

feed

20

transport means

22

cutter

24

discharge station

30

feeder

31

feed

32

Workshop trolley

34

role

36

countertop

38

supporting frame

40

Pneumatic circuit bar

42

energy bar

44

IPC-holder

46

console

48

cable reel

50

storage tray

52

printer

54

drum magazine

56

electric wire

58

front panel

60

actuator

62

actuator

64

capstan

68

cutting jaw

70

cutting jaw

72

cutting blade

74

cutting blade

76

feed

78

Adjustable slide

80

carriage guide

82

failure slide

84

carriages

86

grab

88

grab

90

linear unit

92

positioning

94

nip

96

nip

98

feed

100

robot arm

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 8442664 B1 [0002]
• DE 4440835 C1 [0003]
• DE 19831588 A1 [0003]
• DE 19714964 C1 [0005]
• DE 102004057818 B3 [0007]
• DE 102015119217 A1 [0008]
• DE 102017118968 [0009, 0072]
• DE 102015102060 A1 [0010]

Claims (10)

Cutting machine for feeding the cable (56) according to a predetermined cable length, and a cutting means (22) for cutting the cable (56), characterized by a feed for a cable (56) and a transport device (20), that the feed as multiple feed for a plurality of cable cross-sections or cable types is carried out, wherein via a control unit to be processed cable (56) with respect to the transport device (20) or to the cutting device (22) is alignable. Cutting machine after Claim 1 , wherein the multiple feed has a Verstellschlitten (78) which is movable transversely to the feed direction. Cutting machine after Claim 2 , wherein the adjustment slide (78) is movable in the horizontal direction. Cutting machine after Claim 2 or 3 , wherein on the adjusting slide (78) each cable cross-section or each type of cable, a feed device (30), in particular feed rollers are assigned, which are preferably individually controlled. Automatic bender after one of the Claims 2 to 4 , wherein the adjustment slide (78) is guided on a slide guide (80). Automatic bender after one of the Claims 2 to 5 in that the cables (56) are provided on cable stores, in particular cable reels (48), and guided via a cable guide to the adjustment slide (78). Automatic bender after Claim 1 , wherein the multiple feed with a handling device, in particular a robot (100) is designed, which is adapted to grip the respective cable (56) and to transfer to the transport device (20). A bender according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport means (20) has two drive rollers (64) which are movable apart for threading the cable (56) fed via the multiple feed. Modular cable processing center (WPC) with a central control unit for controlling a plurality of processing modules depending on production data provided by a CAE system or entered manually, wherein the processing modules a cutting machine (4) according to one of the preceding claims and a marking system (6) or a Abisoliereinheit or a contact element feeder or a crimping machine (8) or a cable feed unit (10) and Kabelabführ- / bundle unit (14). WPC after Claim 9 , wherein the processing modules are arranged on a mobile platform, in particular a workshop trolley (32), on which the cable stores are also held.

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